George Parada Jr.

It is with deep sorrow and yet profound gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the peaceful passing of George Parada Jr on September 27, 2026, just days before his 89th birthday. Surrounded by the love of his family at El Paso Hospice, George departed this world leaving behind a legacy of service, love, and cherished memories.

Born on October 3, 1937, in San Elizario, TX, George was the beloved son of George A Parada Sr and Maria Dolores Alarcon. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Antonio, and Heriberto, his sisters Gloria and Margarita, and his dear wife Maria Teresa Parada, who passed away on October 26, 2019.

George's journey was one marked by service and dedication. He bravely served his country in the US Army for 23 years, including two tours in the Vietnam campaign. A decorated soldier, he retired as a First Sergeant, concluding his honorable military career at Ft Sill, OK.

In the early 1960s, George married Gayle Litts, with whom he shared several decades before parting ways in the 1990s. He later found love again with Maria Teresa, with whom he shared many happy years until her passing.

George was a devout member of San Elceario Catholic Church, where his faith was a cornerstone of his life. He was an avid fisherman and hunter, reveling in the beauty of the outdoors and nurturing a deep connection to the land. Gardening was both his solace and passion, and he was a voracious reader, a testament to his unending quest for knowledge.

His kindness and generosity were felt by all who knew him. While he was known for his stern demeanor, he had an uncanny ability to lighten any mood with a well-timed joke, endearing him to friends, family, and strangers alike.

George is survived by his loving children, Theresa Phelps (James), George M Parada, and Mark Parada (Bettina), as well as his siblings Heraclio Parada, Banny Parada, Martina Franco, Helena Mayo and Concha Parada. He leaves behind a cherished legacy in his 11 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren, who will carry forward the values and love he instilled in them.

Visitation to honor George's remarkable life will be held Thursday, October 22, 2026 from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM with a rosary at 7:00 PM at Funeraria del Angel Restlawn, located at 8817 Dyer St, El Paso, TX 79904. Funeral service will be Friday, October 23rd at 10:00 AM at Funeraria del Angel Restlawn with interment to follow in Fort Bliss National Cemetery, 5200 Fred Wilson Ave, El Paso, TX 79906 with military honors.

The family is profoundly grateful to the caregivers at Hospice El Paso for their compassionate care during George's final days. In lieu of flowers, donations in George’s memory may be made to support the ongoing work of this invaluable organization.

As we mourn the loss of George Parada Jr, we take solace in the words of an unknown author: "Sadly missed a long life's way, quietly remembered every day...No longer in our life to share, but in our hearts, you're always there."